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Thriving, Not Just Surviving: A Queer International’s Journey with Mithil Barath

At DEGIS, we believe in sharing the real, unfiltered stories of international students shaping Germany’s future. In this interview, Mithil Barath opens up about his journey as a queer international—from rural East Germany to building inclusive spaces and raising a family in Cologne.

1. You’ve had quite a journey—moving to Germany as a student, staying to work, and now building a life and family here. How has your experience as a queer international shaped your personal and professional path in Germany?

Mithil: My journey to Germany wasn’t planned, it was love that brought me here. I had been living in Hungary, and when my now-husband and I decided to build a future together, I moved to Schmalkalden, a small town in eastern Germany, to start university. That transition wasn’t easy. The culture shock was real, and as a queer international, I often felt invisible. The social climate was conservative, and there wasn’t much space for people like me.

But I didn’t let that stop me. I carved out my own space, both personally and professionally. Eventually, I co-founded the DEGIS chapter in Schmalkalden, creating a platform for international and queer students like myself who were craving connection.

Now, we’ve moved to Cologne, a city that feels much more like home. It’s where I work, raise my twin baby girls (yes, twins!), and finally feel like I can breathe a little easier. But the journey through visas, marriage registration, and endless paperwork? A whole challenge on its own.

Still, every obstacle has made me stronger and more determined to create spaces where queer internationals aren’t just surviving, but thriving. My story isn’t the exception. It’s one of many. And it’s time we make that more visible.

2. Can you tell us about a moment—within DEGIS or beyond—when you truly felt seen and supported as a queer person in Germany? What made that moment meaningful for you?

Mithil: When I started university in Schmalkalden, there was no space for internationals, let alone queer students. I looked around and realized no one was coming to create that space for us. So, I reached out to multiple organizations, and DEGIS was the one that answered.

That response changed everything. With a few other students, I helped launch DEGIS Schmalkalden. We started small, but it grew into something powerful and today, it has over 50 volunteers and a full board. From that, we built clubs and safe spaces for marginalized voices, including one specifically focused on queer expression and the arts.

That moment of being seen, of seeing others show up and build alongside me, was deeply meaningful. For the first time, I felt like I wasn’t just existing in Germany. I was part of something. I was helping to shift the narrative.

3. You’ve led some important initiatives within DEGIS. What motivated you to bring LGBTQAP+ topics into our network, and what impact do you think these initiatives have had so far?

Mithil: What motivated me was simple: silence is never neutral. If we’re not talking about queer topics—especially in international spaces—we’re ignoring a huge part of people’s lived experiences.

I brought LGBTQAP+ issues into DEGIS because I didn’t want another student to feel the kind of isolation I once did. That meant organizing safe groups for expression, pushing for visibility during Pride, and making space for people to share their stories with no filter, no shame.

The impact? It’s in the people who message me after an event saying, “I finally felt seen today.” It’s in the growing number of queer internationals stepping into leadership. It’s in DEGIS showing up—not just during Pride Month—but throughout the year. There’s still so much to do, but we’ve made real progress. And I’m proud to be part of that shift.

4. In your view, how does Germany compare to other places when it comes to creating a safe and inclusive environment for queer internationals? Where are we doing well, and where is there still work to do?

Mithil: I’ve traveled across Europe, the Americas, and Asia, and while I hoped Germany would feel more inclusive, the reality is mixed. Yes, cities like Cologne and Berlin offer more visibility and access. But move outside those bubbles, and it’s a different story.

In smaller towns—especially in the East, being queer and international can still feel like an uphill battle. You’re navigating cultural differences, legal systems, and social stigma all at once.

Germany has made some progress: healthcare is accessible, same-sex marriage is legal, and Pride is celebrated in major cities. But legal rights don’t always translate into lived equality, especially for trans people, BIPOC queer folks, and non-EU internationals.

If Germany wants to live up to its progressive image, it needs to do more than tolerate queer people, it needs to actively support and protect them. Right now, that support is uneven at best.

5. Looking ahead, what kind of support or changes would you love to see from communities like DEGIS to better uplift and empower queer international students and professionals?

Mithil: I’d love to see DEGIS create more dedicated spaces for queer students—spaces that aren’t just inclusive but intentional. We need recurring events, mentorship programs, mental health support, and collaborations with LGBTQ+ and trans-led NGOs.

Let’s not wait for Pride Month to show support. Let’s weave queer inclusion into everything, from career panels to leadership programs. Let’s fund projects by queer internationals. Let’s invite them to lead, not just participate.

The truth is, queer internationals carry unique strengths: adaptability, courage, creativity. But we also carry unique burdens. DEGIS has the platform to be a true ally, not just in words, but in action.

And I do believe it’s moving in that direction. I’ve seen it. I’ve helped shape it. But let’s keep pushing, bigger, bolder, and with all the love and fire we’ve got.

Want to be part of a community that celebrates you—just as you are?

Whether you’re looking for connection, leadership opportunities, or simply a safe space to grow, DEGIS is here for international students and professionals across Germany.

Join DEGIS today and help us build a more inclusive, supportive future, together!

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Why Volunteering Is More than Giving Back

Written by Nur Banu Yavuz

Volunteering is often associated with giving time, energy, and effort. And while this is certainly part of the story, there’s another side that doesn’t get talked about enough: what you gain by volunteering.

I see volunteering not just as a contribution, but as meaningful change. Whether you’re new to a place or want to deepen your roots there, volunteering can open doors you didn’t even know existed.

Let’s start with the basics. DEGIS is a community that supports international students in Germany—through events, reliable information, and most importantly, a sense of belonging. But it’s not only built for international students, it’s also built by them. Volunteers are at the center of everything we do.

What does it really mean to volunteer?

When people think of volunteering, they often imagine helping at events, sending emails, or managing logistics behind the scenes. These things happen—but they’re just the surface. What’s really underneath is growth.

You learn how to lead a team, organize initiatives, and solve problems in real time. You find your voice in a new country or in a new context. You shape the culture and values of your own community. This is leadership in action, and it’s very real.

At DEGIS, volunteers often step into roles where they can actively influence how a local City Chapter works. From organizing language meetups to planning nationwide conferences, there’s a space for your ideas—and the support to bring them to life.

And the best part? You don’t need to come with a long list of experiences. DEGIS values curiosity, commitment, and collaboration. If you’re open to learning, there’s a place for you here.

Personally, my journey with volunteering began before I even arrived in Germany. Back in Turkey, I was involved in various initiatives—from participating in a social responsibility club in high school to actively working with a youth foundation fighting erosion and promoting environmental sustainability.

These experiences shaped the way I see the world and taught me early on that meaningful change often starts with small, consistent actions. They also made me more confident and ready to take initiative when I joined DEGIS—because volunteering had already shown me what it means to be part of something bigger than myself.

Tangible Benefits That Actually Matter

I believe that time and energy deserve to be appreciated, and one way to show it is through access to benefits that make a real difference in our daily lives as international students.

When you join DEGIS as a volunteer, you get access to special discounts on platforms and services you likely already use—or plan to. This includes language courses, online learning tools, event tickets, and merchandise (you can find the full list on our website).

These discounts aren’t just random perks. They’re carefully selected to support your personal, academic, and professional journey in Germany.

Leadership Without Pressure

Leadership doesn’t mean doing everything alone. It means collaborating, experimenting, asking questions, and growing together. Whether you feel more comfortable behind the scenes or stepping up to lead a team, there’s space to explore at your own pace.

You’ll also be part of a national network of other volunteers navigating the same learning processes. We support each other—through peer exchange, check-ins, and national calls where everyone has a voice.

Volunteering That Fits into Your Life

As a student in Germany, I know life can be unpredictable. Between part-time jobs, studying, bureaucracy, and just figuring things out, it can feel overwhelming to commit to something new. That’s why volunteer roles at DEGIS are flexible and mindful of our responsibilities.

You get to decide how involved you want to be and what kind of role suits you best—whether it’s joining an ongoing project, helping out at events, or taking the lead in shaping something new.

A Community That Feels Like Home

For many of us, moving to Germany can be a confusing, even isolating experience. DEGIS is a space for reorientation—a place to meet others on the same journey, to feel connected, and to build something meaningful together.

So if you’re thinking about getting more involved, this is your sign. You can start small. You can start today. Join DEGIS—and let’s do something together.

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From Experience: 6 Ways to Spot Accommodation Scams in Germany

Written by Stefanie Herta

Moving to Germany as an international student is a thrilling and once-in-a-lifetime experience.


However, increasing demands for accommodation, unfamiliar systems, and cultural nuances, securing accommodation remains one of the biggest logistical challenges many international students face in Germany.

 

Earlier this year, Prashant (CCP DEGIS Munich) and I were interviewed by DER SPIEGEL about our experiences navigating the German accommodation system as international students – a challenge many continue to face.

Drawing from my background as a former DAAD professional and DAAD-funded international student mentor, I’ve supported countless students through Germany’s complex rental landscape, and now, I’m sharing those insights once again.


Unfortunately, accommodation scams are a growing concern, especially on fast-moving platforms like Facebook, WG-Gesucht, and eBay Kleinanzeigen. These scams are often cleverly disguised, emotionally exhausting, and can lead to serious financial loss.    

In this article, I’ll be providing you with clear, practical guidance on spotting accommodation scams, avoiding common pitfalls, and staying safe during your search.

Here are some of the most common red flags to watch out for when looking for accommodation in Germany:

1. You’re Asked to Pay a Deposit Before Receiving the Keys

  • Stop! Don’t transfer a cent until the keys are in your hand, even if you have signed a contract.

  • Exceptions to this include the public housing “Studierendenwerk” or certain reputable private student accommodation options.

2. The Photos Look “Too Good to Be True”.

  • If you’re unsure about the legitimacy of the photos, save (or screnshot!) the photo and upload it to Google Reverse Image Search.
    • This allows you to see if the photo has been used in other, unrelated listings with different addresses.
      •  My experience: I was looking at a lovely apartment in Berlin from a Facebook post, and when I did a reverse Google search, I noticed the photo originated from a property in FRANCE, not Germany!

3. The “Landlord” Says They Can’t Meet You Beforehand.

  • Landlords and main tenants alike must offer you the chance to view and inspect the accommodation before signing any contracts.
  • Common excuses involve claiming they are currently overseas or too occupied with work to provide a viewing.
  • If they continue to refuse, even after their “trip”, that’s a red flag! Consider elsewhere.

4. “No Anmeldung”  = No Possibility to Officially Register the Address to Yourself.

There are a few reasons why an apartment or WG doesn’t offer “Anmeldung”:

  1. They are subletting the apartment or room illegally.

    For example    , someone else could be officially registered at the accommodation, but wishes to rent it out without the landlord’s permission. 

  2. They have already reached the maximum number of people legally allowed within the WG/apartment.

  3. The property offers short-term hotel/hostel-style accommodation that doesn’t qualify for registration.
    This is not a red flag, but NOT a long-term option either!

Wait, what is “Anmeldung”?

Anmeldung is the official registration of your address in Germany, and it’s mandatory for anyone living here longer than a few months.

When you move into your new accommodation (even if shared), you must register your address at the local “Bezkirsamt” (district office) / Bürgeramt (citizen’s office).

This process is called “Anmeldung”, and you’ll receive a confirmation document called the “Meldebescheinigung”.

  • Without it, you are unable to apply for your visa, obtain a German tax ID or open certain German bank accounts!
    •  Thus always ask if “Anmeldung” is available!

5. The Monthly Rent Seems “Too Good To Be True”

While there are, on occasion, more affordable options, these are harder to come by nowadays. 

  • Sometimes, scammers will reduce the “price”  to coax desperate accommodation searchers into ignoring fishy details of their listing!
  • So, be sure to view other apartment/WG prices in the area of the listing first!

6. The Devil Is in the (Contract) Details!

  • Obvious errors in formatting or German: Broken sentences, missing legal terms (a note on this soon), or strange word choices in your accommodation contract can indicate the listing was hastily put together without proper understanding (or rather, neglect!) of housing laws.


  • My experience: 
    • When I was reviewing a contract for an apartment, I noticed some grammatical and punctuation errors that one wouldn’t expect from a well-thought-out or official contract. Turns out, it was also a scam!

  • Good To Know:
    • If the contract is in German, try using DeepL or Chat GPT for a helpful translation!
    • Check out the Deutsche Mieterbund for an English version of a typical Rental Contract to compare!

So… Where Should You Search?

Navigating the right platforms can make all the difference in finding trustworthy listings. 

I hope this has been helpful to you, and I wish you the very best in finding your new home in Germany!

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How to Handle Exam Stress & Refocus Energy into Learning

By Aarushi Goel
Msc. International Business Management
DEGIS Head of the Network

Beginning your academic journey in Germany is an exhilarating experience, filled with opportunities for personal growth and professional development. However, as exam periods approach, it’s natural to feel a surge of stress and anxiety. Recognizing that these feelings are a common part of the academic process is the first step toward managing them effectively. By strategically managing your time, engaging in group learning, and maintaining a passion for your studies, you can channelise exam stress towards academic success.

Embrace Stress as a Natural Companion

Understand that stress is a natural response to any challenging situation. This can help reframe your perspective. Consultant clinical psychologist Dr. Beth Mosley emphasizes that anxiety, though natural and necessary for survival, becomes problematic when it leads to disproportionate fears and physiological stress responses. Reframing anxiety as a sign of engaging in brave actions rather than impending failure can be beneficial. Engaging in activities that calm the mind, such as talking to supportive friends or partaking in hobbies, and breaking the thought cycle with physical exercise, are essential strategies. Training the brain to focus on the present, through techniques like meditation or even coloring, can significantly help in managing anxiety. (see: THETIMES.CO.UK )

Master Time Management

  • Effective time management is crucial in reducing exam-related stress. Implementing structured study techniques can enhance productivity and ensure a balanced lifestyle.
  • Pomodoro Technique: This method involves working in focused intervals, typically 25 minutes, followed by a short break. It helps maintain concentration and prevents burnout. Set a timer for 25 minutes, immerse yourself in your studies, then take a 5-minute break. After completing four cycles, reward yourself with a longer break. This way you would’ve studied for 100 minutes within 2 hours which is a focus rate of 82% (see: MUNICH-BUSINESS-SCHOOL.DE ).
  • Spaced Practice: Students are usually curious about learning new things and after that initial curiosity settles, one tends to wander off and put less emphasis towards revising the things learned. Distributing your study sessions over time promotes better retention than cramming. Plan your study schedule to revisit topics periodically, reinforcing your understanding and memory. (see: MUNICH-BUSINESS-SCHOOL.DE)
  • Set Clear Goals: Define specific, achievable objectives for each study session. Having clear goals provides direction and a sense of accomplishment as you progress.

Engage in Collaborative Learning

Studying with peers in a study group can offer diverse perspectives and enhance understanding. Collaborative learning not only deepens comprehension but also provides emotional support during stressful periods.

  • Form Study Groups: Regular group sessions allow for discussion, clarification of doubts, and sharing of resources. Explaining concepts to others can reinforce your own understanding.
  • Teach Back Method: Take turns teaching topics to group members. This technique ensures that you have a solid grasp of the material and can communicate it effectively.
  • Utilize University Resources: Many institutions offer study workshops and group study spaces. Participating in these can provide structured learning environments and opportunities to connect with fellow students.

Maintain Your Passion and Purpose

Remember the enthusiasm that brought you to Germany for your studies. Keeping sight of your goals can provide motivation and resilience during challenging moments during your exam preparation.

  • Reflect on Your Journey: Regularly take time to acknowledge your progress and achievements. Celebrating small victories can boost morale and reinforce your commitment.
  • Balance is Key: While dedication to studies is important, ensure you allocate time for hobbies and relaxation. Engaging in activities you love rejuvenates the mind and prevents burnout.
  • Seek Support When Needed: If stress becomes overwhelming, don’t hesitate to reach out for help. Universities often provide counseling services, and programs like the DEGIS Volunteer Program offer peer support to help you navigate academic and personal challenges.

Practice staying sharp during exam hours

Exam taking is a completely different thing from cognitive abilities, it is ultimately a blend of understanding of a particular concept, stress levels on the day of the exam and the events right before the exam. How often one gets confused about a topic due to a conversation with a fellow right before going to the room. Or per say, due to a habit of napping during the afternoon, and the misfortune of an exam being held at the same time. 

  • Practice writing or studying during the hours your exam is scheduled to take place, this can help maintain focus during the exam.
  • Communicate with peers right before exams but don’t let disagreements cloud your judgement or deprive you from what you know. 

In conclusion, while exam stress is a natural aspect of academic life, it doesn’t have to overshadow your experience. By adopting effective time management strategies, engaging in collaborative learning, and staying connected to your passion, you can navigate this period with confidence and resilience. Embrace the journey, support one another, and continue striving toward your academic and personal growth.

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New Year, New Goals: Practical Strategies to Build Lasting Habits in 2025

Written by Stefanie Herta (MA. Psychologie, DEGIS Marketing & Community Manager)

So… 2025 Is Here! How Do You Feel?

Being an international student can often feel like a whirlwind of new experiences, responsibilities, and cultural surprises.

With all that happening, it’s quite easy to lose track of personal goals or to set lofty resolutions that slip away by February!

Therefore, now is the best time to share with you some gentle, tried-and-tested strategies on how we can set meaningful goals and develop daily habits that truly endure, helping us create a brighter and more balanced 2025!

Reflect on the Past Year

Just like checking your progress at the end of a semester, taking a moment to reflect on the previous year can work wonders for clarity and motivation:

Celebrate Wins: Perhaps you passed a challenging German exam or landed a part-time job amid a busy schedule, it’s time to recognize your hard work!

Identify Challenges: Were language barriers or homesickness more overwhelming than expected? Pinpointing and becoming aware of these stressors is a powerful way to address them.

Gather Insights: Consider what could be improved. Could you manage your time differently or reach out for help sooner? These insights also pave the way for healthier, more realistic goals.

Craft SMART Goals

When you’re juggling lectures, part-time work, and maybe even language classes, vague goals like “I’ll do better this year” might not be enough. 

Instead, aim for SMART goals:

  1. Specific: Pinpoint what you want to achieve. “Attend one networking event per month” is more tangible than “network more.”
  2. Measurable: Keep track of your progress. If improving your German is a priority, aim for “completing one chapter of a German coursebook per week.”
  3. Achievable: Ensure your goal fits your current reality. Taking on too much at once can lead to exhaustion, so balance is key!
  4. Relevant: Align each goal with your true priorities, whether they’re academic, career-focused, or related to personal well-being.
  5. Time-Bound: Give yourself a deadline or timeframe. Finishing a particular project before the next semester begins can offer the structure you need.

Breaking objectives down in this way helps make them feel less daunting and more within reach.

Break Big Dreams into Tiny Steps

Sometimes, goals can seem as daunting as mastering German grammar (I’ve been there!). One helpful approach is to divide them into manageable chunks:

  • Sub-Goals: If your main focus is to publish a research paper, start by committing to a daily or weekly word count—like 200 words a day.

  • Celebrate Mini-Milestones: Congratulate yourself when you complete the literature review or perfect your first draft. These small successes fuel your motivation.

  • Prioritize Tasks: Each week, choose the top 2–3 tasks you must accomplish. This keeps you on track even when life is hectic.

Build Habits That Stick

Reaching your goals often comes down to creating small, consistent habits. Here’s how to develop routines that work seamlessly with your lifestyle:

  1. Start Small: Try adding a 10-minute study session to your evening routine instead of forcing a two-hour block out of the blue.
  2. Use Habit Stacking: Already cook dinner regularly? Organize your desk or create tomorrow’s to-do list while your meal simmers.
  3. Create an Environment for Success: Keep textbooks and notes in an orderly, well-lit space. Simplify your “digital space” by minimizing distracting notifications.
  4. Set Reminders: Use alarms, sticky notes, or apps to help you stay consistent—especially during busy exam periods.
  5. Find Accountability: Partner up with a study buddy or join an online community for mutual encouragement.

Overcome Hurdles & Stay Motivated

As an international student, you might face extra challenges: visa appointments, cultural differences, or simply missing home. Here’s how to navigate those obstacles:

  • Plan for Setbacks: Life rarely follows a perfect script. If you miss a study session or fall behind on a project, schedule a time to catch up when you can.

  • Stay Flexible: Perhaps you discover your internship clashes with your class schedule. Adjust your plans as needed without abandoning your overarching goals.
  • Revisit Your ‘Why’: If you’re feeling discouraged, remember why you chose this path—maybe it’s earning a global degree, gaining international exposure, or pursuing a dream career.
  • Reward Yourself: Small gestures go a long way. Treat yourself to a favorite dessert or plan a relaxing weekend activity when you reach a milestone.

Track & Adapt

Just like in academics, regular check-ins help you stay on course:

  • Use a Journal or App: Make notes of your daily or weekly progress. This way, you can spot patterns and adjust where necessary.

  • Set Regular Check-Ins: Every month or quarter, reflect on what’s working and whether you need to refine your approach.

  • Visualize Success: A vision board or a simple mental image of your future self (such as graduating with honors or landing your ideal job) can be remarkably motivating.

Progress Over Perfection

Finally, it’s important to remember that growth is a journey, not a final destination:

  • Practice Self-Compassion: Feeling overwhelmed is perfectly normal. You’re juggling a lot, so treat yourself kindly!

  • Learn & Adapt: Each challenge, from dealing with bureaucracy to managing cultural differences, builds resilience and enhances your story.

Concluding Thoughts

A new year brings fresh possibilities that become tangible when we set precise, achievable goals and strengthen them with supportive daily habits.

Each small achievement moves us forward, so let’s celebrate our progress and keep striving for the life we envision!

Are you ready to connect with a supportive community and access helpful resources?

Become a free community member with DEGIS! You’ll find guidance, events, and a network of fellow international students who understand your journey.

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Winter in Germany: No, It’s Not as Dull as Everyone Says!

Written by Tonya @gravity_tonya

What is so ‘bad’ about the German winter? I asked my friends from different countries and got opposite answers:

  • People from warmer climates (South Africa, Pakistan, India) said ‘it’s cold and dark’
  • People from colder climates (Ukraine, Sweden, Finland) mentioned that ‘there’s no snow!’

And this made me realize – we all focus on what’s missing. Coming from Belarus, I am used to the lack of daylight hours but terribly miss the *real* snow. My friends from warmer countries can’t come to terms with the temperature, but are excited for even a couple snowflakes haha.

So, why focus on what’s not there when you can enjoy what is? The grass is greener where you water it, so here are my tips on making the most out of your German winter.

Christmas Markets (obviously!)

Sadly, they don’t last too long and you’ll have to find other activities for January and February. But while the festive season is still here, you need to try my personal delicious favorites:

  • Hot cocoa (with Baileys if you drink)
  • Reibekuchen (amazing potato pancakes)
  • Chocolate glazed strawberries
  • Baumkuchen (Trdelnik)
  • Crepes
  • Any Wurst mit Pommes (Sausage with Fries)

Traveling

(after the exams are done and you can finally put that 49 Euro-Ticket to use)

  • Bavaria is perfect for winter if you want to see snowy nature
  • Cologne in February (celebrate one of the main German traditions – Karneval!)
  • Check which nearby coutries you can visit with your 49 Euro-Ticket (which is usually included in your semester ticket!) (sometimes neigbouring cities can be included in the ticket range – like Venlo in the Netherlands)

Cozy Night-Ins

When on some days the weather gets too cold and the energy levels just aren’t there, I love staying in – but with a twist. I invite friends over and we cook something together, like a home-made pizza, or bake gingerbread cookies. Get some cocoa, milk, choose a cozy movie – and enjoy the time with frieds, despite the cold outside.

Sauna / Thermal Spa

What can be better than a little spa-retreat in the middle of the cold day? Don’t worry, it doesn’t have to break the bank! There are a lot of budget friendly options with student discounts or even specific deals for a special ‘student’ day of the week. I enjoyed myself in Aachen like that (Carolus Thermen have an amazign pool + sauna area for only 18-20 EUR for 3,5 hours!)

Classic German Movies

I love cinema and want to really dedicate my time to studying German this semester break – so why not combine both? Join me in this challenge.

Here are some of the classic German films on my list:

  • Drei Haselnüsse für Aschenbrödel (Three Wishes for Cinderella) – a beloved fairy tale movie.
  • Oh Boy – for a wintry slice of Berlin life.
  • Das Wunder von Bern – a heartwarming post-war story with snowy vibes.

I am sure there are a million other cool things to do this winter!
Some of which we’ll be covering in the upcoming ‘Winter Wellness & New Year Planning’ webinar with Caro from DEGIS National team. Join us on December 18th and let’s break the ‘German winter’ stereotype!

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Life as an International Student in a German-Taught Master’s Program

Preparations Before the Leap

Embarking on the adventure of permanently migrating to Germany and studying psychology in a German-taught program as an International Student had been a dream I held for almost a decade. My passion for immersing myself in a new culture began with my first student exchange experience in the Black Forest (Schwarzwald) region during high school.

Determined to continue this journey, I completed a DAAD-scholarship-supported language course at the Universität zu Köln and participated in another exchange program at the Universität Hamburg a few years later. Concurrently, I continued to expand on my German language skills at my university in Sydney, Australia, while working for the DAAD.

However, amidst the dull and restrictive happenings of the pandemic in 2021, I realized it was finally time to make the leap from Australia to Germany. Pursuing my passion for psychology with a Master’s program and challenging myself in ways I had never imagined was just as I always dreamed. Yet, the reality of being the only international student in my German-taught course brought unexpected struggles that I hadn’t fully anticipated.

Stepping into the Unknown

The first day at university felt like walking into a different world, starting just a few days after my arrival with a new home and jetlag on top! Surrounded by new faces and engaging in complex conversations entirely in German, I was both excited and challenged by the opportunity to fully immerse myself in the language and culture. Although I held a C1 level in German, the fast-paced lectures and nuanced academic discussions initially felt daunting. I remember sitting in the lecture hall about to hold my first presentation, and I was shaking in my boots!

Academic Pressures & Social Struggles

Studying psychology in a language that isn’t my first added an extra layer of complexity to every assignment and exam. The specialized terminology, the depth of theoretical concepts, and the expectation to engage critically in discussions made the experience quite challenging. However, these challenges motivated me further to push against my fears and enhance my skills to thrive in the German academic environment.

All these academic pressures were further intensified by being the only international student in my German-taught Master’s program. While I received considerable empathy, kindness and support from fellow students during my unique journey, there wasn’t a single person in my cohort who could fully relate to my specific experiences, talk about being the lone wolf, right?

Discovering DEGIS

In my quest to find a sense of community who actually understood and could relate to my personal journey, I discovered DEGIS!  DEGIS is Germany’s largest International Student community, and offers the chance to dedicate ourselves to meaningful projects, connect with like-minded peers, and develop practical skills in areas like marketing, event management, and leadership. Volunteering with DEGIS can provide a supportive network and help bridge the gap between your academic life and personal well-being.

Additionally, after two semesters, you can earn an official certificate that not only acknowledges your dedication but also enhances your CV in Germany. Being part of the DEGIS community has been instrumental in building lasting relationships and enriching the international student experience, not only for myself but also for others!

Enhancing my German

Furthermore, I sought ways to enhance my German beyond the C1 level. I immersed myself in the language by attending local meetups with other language learners, speaking as much German as possible with my fellow native speaker students, reading German literature and diving into German news on politics and cultural happenings. If you want some cool tips on German language resources,  click here– and don’t forget to join Aarushi & Dhruv in their DEGIS German Learning Webinar 14. Nov 2024 at 7PM CET!

Just Do It!

Above all, taking action in your new life in Germany without hesitation is key!
Embrace every opportunity to learn and grow, and remember that each challenge you overcome strengthens your resilience. I firmly believe that facing your fears front on and trying new things will be the biggest deciding factor for success for your journey in Germany!

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Volunteer with DEGIS & Elevate Your Experience in Germany

Written by Aarushi Goel – Head of the Network

Becoming a volunteer is one of the most rewarding ways to enrich your time abroad!

As an international student in Germany, I found that joining DEGIS (German Association for International Students) not only helped me adjust to a new country but also allowed me to grow both personally and professionally. Volunteering gave me the opportunity to connect with people from around the world and understand their individual and common challenges and relate to them on many levels.

Why Becoming a Volunteer With DEGIS Is So Valuable

DEGIS offers a platform where international students can come together, share experiences, and support one another. For me, this was a lifeline during the transition to a new life in Germany. The benefits of volunteering with DEGIS are numerous, and I want to highlight the ones that I found most impactful:

  • Building a Network: One of the biggest advantages is the chance to connect with students from all over the world. When I first joined, I was amazed by the sense of community DEGIS fosters. It’s not just about meeting people; it’s about creating lasting connections with others who are going through the same experiences, whether it’s struggling with accommodation, adjusting to a new culture, or navigating university and professional life.
  • Gaining Leadership Experience: It wasn’t just about being part of a team; but about stepping into a leadership role that challenges you to grow. Soon after joining, I became the VP of Projects for DEGIS Berlin. Even though I had no formal leadership experience, this role pushed me to learn how to manage a team, coordinate projects, and make decisions that had a real impact on our chapter. These are skills that will stay with me long after I leave Germany.
  • Developing Practical Skills: From organizing events to managing marketing campaigns, volunteering gave me hands-on experience. For example, I launched a project called CROSS CHECK, aimed at helping international students verify housing options before arriving in Germany. This experience taught me how to take an idea from concept to execution, involving project planning, marketing, and team management.
  • Making a Real Impact: One of the most fulfilling aspects of DEGIS is knowing that my efforts were directly helping others. Whether by organizing events to help students settle in or sitting in a big online group and discussing common resume drafting mistakes, my contributions have a tangible effect.

How DEGIS City Chapters Are Structured

Every DEGIS city chapter is structured with several departments, each providing unique opportunities to contribute. Here’s how the organization works:

  • City Chapter Leadership: Each city chapter is led by a President who acts as the bridge between the national DEGIS team and local volunteers. If you’re interested in leadership, this is where you can really grow. My own experience as VP taught me a lot about how to lead a team of people with different backgrounds towards common goals.
  • Events Team: Organizing social and self developmental events is at the heart of DEGIS. These events are designed to help international students adjust to life in Germany, offering support in areas like socializing, settling in, and personal growth.
  • Marketing Team: If you enjoy promoting initiatives and maintaining a strong online presence, this team is perfect. They are responsible for creating awareness of DEGIS events and making sure the wider international student community knows about the opportunities available to them.
  • HR and Business Development Teams: HR ensures that new volunteers are smoothly integrated into the organization, while the Business Development team builds relationships with external partners like universities and sponsors. These teams offer a fantastic chance to develop people management and networking skills.

Why You Should Get Involved As A Volunteer

If you’re an international student in Germany, I highly encourage you to consider volunteering with DEGIS. For me, it was the key to unlocking a deeper, more fulfilling experience in a foreign country. It’s an opportunity to not only help others but also grow as an individual. DEGIS gives you the platform to bring your ideas to life, take on leadership roles, and make a meaningful difference in the international student community. And hey, this also comes with a certificate upon completion of 2 semesters as a volunteer.

Through DEGIS, you’ll gain more than just volunteering experience — you’ll gain confidence, leadership skills, and lifelong connections. So take the leap as a DEGIS volunteer and have your journey in Germany taken to the next level!

Register as a DEGIS Volunteer Here!